Little fanfare was made last year when Koya, a tiny Japanese noodle house, opened in London's Soho. Instead, its reputation grew by word of mouth. Koya's speciality is udon – made on the premises the traditional way, by foot, and served three ways: in big bowls of hot broth, cold with a pouring sauce or dip, or cold with a hot broth for dunking. There are other great options aside from noodles, including crisp tempuras and an adventurous daily specials board.

49 Frith Street, London W1D 4SG; koya.co.uk

RUNNERS UP

LONDON

Wahaca The popularity of the Mexican market eating chain, co-founded by Thomasina Miers, seem appears limitless. From tostadas to tacos, there's something for everyone.Branches across London

SOUTH & WEST

Thali Cafe A Bristol institution and the winner of this category last year, the Thali Cafe's seasonal Indian food remains hard to beat for value and quality. Branches in Clifton, Easton, Montpelier and Totterdown

NORTH

The Settle Down Cafe Attractive city-centre cafe serving simple, Italian coffee-shop style sandwiches, salads and other small eats at great prices. Try the bresaola ciabatta. 62 Thornton Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4AW; 0191 222 0187

This & That A family-run business established for over 20 years, the exceptionally well-priced menu (£4.40 for two meat dishes, one veg and rice) ensure this remains one of Manchester's most popular curry houses. 3 Soap Street, Shudehill, Manchester M4 1EW; 0161 832 4971

MIDLANDS & EAST

Tamatanga Delicious, fresh Indian food served quickly in a canteen-style environment. You can fill yourself up on food and drink for around £12. The Cornerhouse, Trinity Square, Nottingham, NG1 4DB; 0115 958 4848

Box Brownie Coffee Monmouth coffee, an indecent array selection of cakes, cookies and, indeed, brownies, make this Stratford's best coffee house, hands down. And Plus it's next door to Shakespeare's house. 20 Henley Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6QW; 01789 204 199

WALES

Milgi Lounge The chefs at Milgi forage the surrounding fields and hedgerows for their inspired 100% vegetarian menus. Main courses rarely top the £9 mark. 213 City Road, Cardiff, CF24 3JD; 0292 047 3150

SCOTLAND

Illegal Jack's South West Grill The authentic Mexican, Native American and cowboy-inspired food ticks all the boxes for any south-western food fanatic. They even add a Scottish twist, too – haggis burrito, anyone?113-117 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH3 9AN; 0131 622 7499

NORTHERN IRELAND

Barista Coffee House You'll get change from a tenner in this gourmet sandwich bar, where people the price belies the quality of its ingredients. There's always often a queue stretching out the door at lunchtimes but the price belies the quality of its ingredients.257 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3JF; 0289 065 5332